Medication Contraindications & Warnings
Essential safety information for partner screening and patient evaluation
⚠ Important Partner Notice
This guide provides contraindications and warnings for each medication. Always consult with healthcare providers and conduct proper patient screening before recommending any treatment. When in doubt, refer to medical supervision.
✅ Tirzepatide Benefits (GLP-1 + GIP Receptor Agonist)
Dual-incretin agonist approved for diabetes and weight management
- Enhanced weight loss – Clinical trials show greater weight reduction than semaglutide
- Improved insulin sensitivity – May help reduce insulin resistance
- Dual hormone action – Combines GLP-1 and GIP mechanisms for broader metabolic effects
- Blood glucose regulation – Helps manage A1c and fasting glucose in diabetics
- Appetite suppression – Strong satiety signaling via central nervous system
- Cardiometabolic markers – May improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation markers
⛔ Strong Contraindications (Do Not Use)
- Personal or Family History of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)
Black box warning: Like other GLP-1s, tirzepatide is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or MEN2. - Known Hypersensitivity to Tirzepatide or Its Components
Anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity. - Pregnancy
Not recommended during pregnancy. Must be discontinued at least 1–2 months before planned conception due to long half-life and unknown fetal risk. - History of Pancreatitis
Use is not recommended in patients with a history of pancreatitis. GLP-1 and GIP agonists may increase risk of recurrence.
⚠ Use with Caution
- Severe GI Disease (e.g., Gastroparesis)
Tirzepatide significantly slows gastric emptying, which can worsen gastroparesis or cause intolerable nausea and bloating. Not recommended in patients with confirmed or suspected GI motility disorders. - Diabetic Retinopathy
Rapid improvement in glucose control may worsen existing retinopathy, as observed with other incretin-based therapies. Monitor closely in patients with eye disease. - Renal Impairment
Severe vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration can lead to acute kidney injury, particularly in older adults or those with existing renal compromise. - Gallbladder Disease
Tirzepatide increases risk of cholelithiasis (gallstones) due to weight loss and slowed GI motility. Monitor for RUQ pain. - Breastfeeding
There is no data on tirzepatide in breastfeeding. Avoid unless clearly indicated.
♡ Common Side Effects (Dose-Dependent)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- Appetite suppression
- Dizziness or headache